| Description: |
Long, arching, sword-shaped leaves, borne spirally up the stout trunk, are stiff but lack any spine at the tip. |
| Environment: |
Suitable for the home or a greenhouse |
| Lighting Needs: |
Does best in full sunlight coming from the South/East/West |
| Soil Type: |
A GOOD general purpose potting soil (a soil that retains water yet drains well) will suffice. Check purchased soil to see that it is well aerated and add sand or perlite and peat moss if it seems to pack too tightly. Give the plants a chance to settle in before going back to whatever fertilization program has been successful for you. If you want to mix your own take:
1 part garden soil, 1 part coarse sand or perlite, 1 part moist peat or humus (leaf mold) and a light dusting of lime.
Always use a pot with a hole.
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| Watering: |
Keep the soil barely moist in the winter and evenly moist during summer. If you use rainwater, be careful as it could be acidic. Use warm water. |
| Fertilizer: |
Feed once a year in the spring using a water soluble fertilizer. |
| Plant Pests: |
Prone to mealy bugs and scale. Always inspect any new plant for pests before introducing it to your home or greenhouse. |
| Propagation: |
Suckers and seeds
in the spring.
It is best to propagate suckers or seeds in a mixture of moist peat and perlite. Cover the pot and plant with a plastic bag secured by a rubber band to prevent the moisture from escaping. Place in indirect sunlight or under a fluorescent light. Repot in its regular mix after it has been growing for a while.
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| Gardening Tips & Care: |
Will grow for everyone with a little care, just ensure the soil has good drainage.
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